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Stress can have a profound effect on immune system health. As many of us are coping with the global changes that have affected our lives, we can see the results of our increased stress response. This can include cortisol imbalance and adrenal fatigue that leads patients to your practice with complaints of anxiousness, memory fog, sugar cravings, and sleep issues. If the stress continues its chronic course, further symptoms of fatigue, hair loss, and reduced immune function can ensue.
Omega-3 fatty acids can have a profound effect on the brain, and particularly for helping to reduce the incidence of depression and mental decline. Specifically, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been shown to help lower the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. 1 A new study published in The Lancet has shown that higher levels of this fatty acid are required than previously thought to help lower the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 1
The ongoing research of medicinal plants is beneficial for revealing the powerful constituents that each contains. Andrographis paniculata, or Andrographis, is one such plant that possesses many photochemical compounds offering unique biological properties. Used for centuries in Asia and India as traditional medicine for several applications including digestive issues, inflammation, and fever, Andrographis features various compounds in its aerial parts and roots such as terpenoids (entalabdane diterpene lactones), flavonoids (flavones), noriridoides, xanthones, polyphenols, and trace/macro elements. 1,2
As we age, the protective ends of our linear chromosomes known as telomeres, shorten. Telomeres are sequences of repeated DNA material that caps every chromosome in the body. The job of telomeres is to protect the genetic materials within the chromosomes. When DNA replicates, these telomeres shorten. This process is a sign of molecular aging and is associated with the development of diseases related to aging such as arthritis. 1 With this in mind, the lengthening of these telomeres influences longevity, while environmental factors can have an impact on how quickly telomeres erode. It stands to reason that, in order to address age-related diseases, that the lengthening of telomeres is in order. Here is an overview of this fascinating subject that may lead to the fountain of youth many seek.
Every day, the body eliminates cells that are abnormal or damaged through apoptosis, which prevents the build-up of dysfunctional cells within tissues. As a normal, daily function, this process unfortunately changes as we age. Older cells stop working properly, which includes losing the ability to complete normal tasks and the ability to divide. Instead of dying, however, some of these cells continue to stay put and can accumulate in the tissues in what is known as cellular senescence. These senescent cells can create a burden within the body, and contribute to many of the conditions seen with aging, such as arthritis, reduced vision, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and cancer. 1-5
Probiotics are touted as a game-changer for microbiome health. Most people are familiar with probiotics as a standard part of yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchee. Today, however, probiotics revolve around a burgeoning industry that promotes their use for everything from improving digestion and weight loss, to reducing the number and occurrence of upper respiratory tract infections. Mainstream food manufacturers have taken to adding probiotics to foods previously found without them, riding the wave of probiotic inclusion. While extensive research does back the use of probiotics for health, there is evidence that they may not be for everyone.
Recommending supplements is a part of helping to ensure the overall health and wellness of patients. Understanding that may impact a patient’s ability to absorb supplemental nutrients, however, can become a complex array of factors to consider. In looking at nutritional supplementation, a practitioner should be concerned with how much of a nutrient can be absorbed, and how much of that nutrient is available for cellular uptake, use, or storage. 1
Two recent genetic studies have indicated that a patient’s blood type is key for how likely he is to develop COVID-19. A study from the Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology in Germany indicated that those with Type A blood were at higher risk to contract COVID-19 with respiratory failure, as well as a protective factor with Type O blood compared with other types. 1 In the second study from 23andMe, genetic data were analyzed from over 800,000 of the company’s customers, wherein it was shown that Type O blood provided a protective effect against acquiring SARS CoV-2 versus all other blood types.(CITE 23 and me study) Patients with Type O were also less likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19. 2 With both studies in mind, the connection between blood type and health may be beneficial to explore for other health issues.
With wireless carriers making the move to the more powerful and faster 5G, so too should we be concerned about its effects on our health. Specifically, electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that are given off by cellular devices that include cellular phones, mobile phone masts, cordless phones, and WI-FI routers, may be a source of adverse health effects such as depression, anxiety, impaired memory, aches and pains in the muscles/joints, palpitations, and fatigue. Sensitivity to these EMFs is known as electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome (EHS), and even though telecommunications giants claim that faster 5G is safe, there are some who say “not so fast” and for good reason.
As a form of nasal irrigation, the neti pot is nothing new, and it is certainly not the only way to clear the sinuses. In fact, nasal irrigation has been used in many civilizations for centuries and can be traced back to the Hindu practice of Indian Ayurveda and considered a personal hygiene ritual to be performed daily.
